As the years roll by, it’s natural to look back and reflect on our choices, dreaming about the wisdom we could have shared with our younger selves. When it comes to beauty, hindsight is everything – from steering clear of cringe-worthy trends to making skincare investments that truly matter. If only we could time-travel to offer our 20-year-old selves a few crucial tips! Here’s a list of timeless beauty advice we wish we’d known back then…
- Think Twice Before Getting That Tattoo
Tattoos can be beautiful and meaningful expressions of art, but not all ink stands the test of time. From impulsive decisions and misspelled designs to evolving personal tastes, tattoos can quickly turn into lifelong regrets. Yes, tattoo removal is a lifesaver, but it requires commitment. Complete removal often takes between 6 to 12 sessions.
So how does it work? Laser tattoo removal machines use advanced technology to penetrate the pigment in the tattoo and break down ink particles into smaller fragments. These fragments are then naturally flushed out by your body’s lymphatic system. While the sessions are relatively quick, they can be uncomfortable – so don’t forget a dose of pain relief beforehand. Future you will thank you for making thoughtful choices before committing to ink.
- SPF Is Your Best Friend
We all love the radiant glow of sun-kissed skin, but at what cost? Sun exposure is one of the most damaging things for your skin, responsible for up to 80% of visible aging. UV rays break down collagen and elastin, accelerating wrinkles, discoloration and sagging long before you notice a tan.
Especially in regions like Australia, where the sun is incredibly harsh – a high-SPF sunscreen (30+ or 50+) should be a daily non-negotiable. For added convenience, choose a tinted moisturizer or BB cream with built-in SPF protection for those sunny days.
- Laser Hair Removal: The Gift That Keeps Giving
Shaving, waxing and threading might seem like the easiest options for hair removal, but in reality, they’re costly, time-consuming and often painful in the long run. That’s where laser hair removal steps in as the ultimate game-changer.
After 6–8 sessions, you can enjoy long-term results: smooth skin without the hassle of ingrown hairs or razor burns. Using state-of-the-art laser technology, laser hair removal machines work by heating the hair follicle to inhibit regrowth while leaving the surrounding skin untouched. While the initial investment may feel steep, it pays off in time, convenience, and confidence – making it one of the best beauty decisions you’ll ever make.
- Hands Off Those Pimples!
We’ve all been tempted to pop a pimple or two, but the aftermath is never worth it. Picking at your skin can lead to scarring, inflammation and prolonged healing. For those struggling with chronic acne, scars can develop even without touching your skin.
Enter micro-needling, or Collagen Induction Therapy – a revolutionary treatment for resurfacing the skin and reducing acne scars. This procedure involves a specialized pen with ultra-fine needles creating micro-injuries on the skin’s surface. These micro-wounds stimulate collagen and elastin production, helping to smooth out scars, fine lines, and wrinkles while promoting a brighter, rejuvenated complexion. The results? Firmer, plumper skin that feels as good as it looks.
- Invest in a Good Skincare Routine (and Stick to It!)
A solid skincare routine is essential for maintaining healthy skin. Start with a good cleanser, toner, and moisturizer, and consider seeking professional advice to tailor products to your skin’s specific needs. Dermatologists, dermal therapists, and aestheticians can provide valuable insights through professional skin consultations and analyses.
- Choose Quality Over Quantity
When it came to beauty products, I used to think that more products meant better results. But after years of experimentation, I’ve learned that finding the right high-quality skincare products that actually work for your particular skin type and then sticking with them yields the best results.
Flitting from one product to the next without allowing long enough to work is not going to give you the best results so once you are lucky enough to find something that does – STICK with it!
- “Beauty Sleep” Is No Myth
Who’d younger selves didn’t used to stay up late, binge-watching shows then waking up with dark circles and tired skin the following day? Seven to eight hours a night is essential for maintaining healthy skin, reducing stress and supporting overall well-being.
Just because you are prioritising sleep, doesn’t always mean it will come! If you struggle with getting a good night rest or find it difficult to fall asleep, try to create a relaxing nighttime routine. Instead of scrolling or watching TV, instead try calming a cup of calming tea, reading book or a guided mediation…signalling to your body that it’s time to wind down.
- Exfoliation is Key (But Don’t Overdo It)
Exfoliation was a step I used to neglect entirely, but sloughing off dead skin cells helps to reveal smoother, brighter skin, making it an essential part of any beauty regimen. Remember that whilst regular exfoliation is great, over-exfoliating is not and can cause irritation your and damage. Balance is key.
Tip: Use a gentle exfoliator once or twice a week, depending on your skin’s needs. Chemical exfoliators containing AHA’s and BHA’s are best for your face – save the manual exfoliants like sugar or coffee grounds for your body only.
- Take Time to Pamper Yourself
Self-care is often seen as a luxury, but it’s essential for long-term beauty and well-being. Taking time for a relaxing bath, a face mask, or a calming yoga session can reduce stress, improve your mood, and give your skin that radiant glow.
Set aside time each week for a little “you” time. Treat yourself to your favorite beauty rituals without guilt – you deserve it.
- Give Yourself Grace
We all have days when we don’t feel confident or our best selves however beauty isn’t just skin-deep. It’s all about how we carry ourselves, our attitudes and confidence as well as how we treat others. My younger self was way too hard on my outer appearance, chasing down an ideal that wasn’t even mine to begin with.
Pro Tip: Focus on the things you love about yourself and remember that beauty is personal.
- A Positive Mindset is the Ultimate Beauty Secret
I learned over time that the best beauty tip I could ever give myself, and anyone else for that matter is to cultivate a healthy and positive mindset. Confidence radiates from the inside out, and when you truly feel good about who you are, it shows in your appearance.
Above all, self-acceptance is the most powerful lesson. Comparison to others is common but learning to love your body as it is can boost your confidence and happiness. We only have one body in this lifetime, so embrace your unique shape, size, and color – cherish and take care of it!
By following these pieces of advice, you can avoid some common beauty pitfalls and make choices that your future self will thank you for. Embrace these tips and celebrate the beauty of self-care and self-love!
This article was brought to you in partnership with salon suppliers, The Global Beauty Group. To learn more about any of the treatments discussed, contact the team at The Global Beauty Group team on 1300 006 607.
